IBA, the city's project development company, is creating three new neighbourhoods in Neugraben-Fischbek with a total of over 5,000 residential units. Vogelkamp Neugraben is the furthest along, already two-thirds complete and occupied. Its prime location on the city's edge—directly adjacent to the ecologically significant "Moorgürtel" nature reserve and EU bird sanctuary—offers residents the best of both worlds: excellent transport connections and convenient access to local services. The northern edge, facing the countryside, showcases single-family homes, duplexes, and row houses. Along the southern edge, public squares, and park frontage, apartment buildings complete the diverse neighbourhood character.

Designed by Gerber Architects, this ensemble pays thoughtful homage to Hanseatic building traditions through its clinker brick façades, creating a harmonious fit with the surrounding landscape. Positioned alongside the neighbourhood park—with its varied recreational facilities, green spaces, and gathering areas—the residential quarter comprises two building blocks of staggered lengths: a shorter row of three townhouses and a longer section of five. Carefully articulated façade projections and recesses reinforce the rhythmic, open composition. The interplay of clinker colours emphasizes the calm horizontal lines that echo the park's layout. The measured balance of solid and transparent wall surfaces, combined with the subtle modulation of light and shadow across the façades, creates a serene, welcoming character. The light-filled balcony design further enhances the sense of openness and airiness.

The thoughtfully varied interior floor plans mirror the refined articulation of the exterior building blocks. Across four storeys, 77 cooperative rental units range from two to three rooms, offering 55 to 75 m² of living space. Floor-to-ceiling windows, balconies, and terraces frame expansive views of the verdant surroundings and the neighbourhood park from every unit and every floor. The seamless integration of interior and exterior space was central to the architects' design vision. Ground-floor terraces create inviting transitional zones that blur the boundary between home and landscape. A playground integrated into the park ensures families enjoy ample recreational space. Each unit includes dedicated parking, completing a thoughtfully conceived residential community.

www.gerberarchitekten.de

Photography Credits:

Marcus Bredt
www.marcusbredt.de

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 02|21)